By: Addilyn Susie
Southampton Arts Center will honor 3 generations of local veterans by hearing their stories on November 8th from 3:00-5:00 pm.
Three short films will be shown from the USA Warrior Stories Archive, including Angelique Williams (Navy 1997-2014), Ed German (USMC 1967-70), and Martin Sylvester (Army 1943-45). Following the films, a Q&A moderated by USA Warrior Stories founders Matt Hindra and Nick Kraus will take place with Angelique Williams, Ed German, and Martin Sylvester’s son, Paul Sylvester, offering an opportunity to reflect on their meaningful experiences.
Matt Hindra stated, “In honor of Veterans Day USA Warrior Stories is excited to screen three stories from our archive at the Southampton Arts Center followed by a Q&A with U.S. Navy Veteran Angelique Williams, USMC Vietnam War Veteran Ed German and WWII Army Veteran Martin Sylvester’s son Paul Sylvester moderated by USA Warrior Stories founders Matt Hindra & Nick Kraus. We invite the community to come and learn more about USA Warrior Stories and the Veteran stories we share.”
Angelique Williams served in the Navy and faced challenges during her service. By sharing her story, she hopes to encourage other female Veterans to speak out. Angelique’s adjustment to post-military life has been supported by her family, the arts, and her service dog Buddy, provided to her by Paws of War.
On May 10th, 1969, Ed German was wounded along with 3 other Marines during a patrol. When Ed returned to civilian life, no one ever asked him about his time in service. Eventually, Ed started writing and publishing stories about his experience, and in 2013, published “Deep Down in Brooklyn,” a memoir of growing up in Brooklyn and his experiences during and after his military service.
Martin Sylvester grew up in Brooklyn and on April 4, 1943, turned 18 and registered for the draft. Martin, a Jewish American, served overseas and was wounded and taken prisoner during his service. When he was eventually liberated, he weighed only 80 pounds. Martin and his son Paul later returned to Normandy to mark the anniversary of the historic D-Day landings.
Southampton Arts Center Executive Director Christina Strassfield shared, “We are so thrilled to be working with USA Warrior Stories to honor the many who served our country. This event is open to all and we encourage the community to join us to celebrate all those who served.”
Since 2017, USA Warrior Stories has recorded and shared over 300 stories of Military Veterans, helping to increase our understanding of their sacrifices for our freedoms and the challenges they face in their post-service lives.
About Southampton Arts Center
Southampton Arts Center is dedicated to community building through the arts, we create and showcase engaging, inclusive programs that are socially and regionally relevant across various disciplines. Our efforts focus on welcoming, connecting, and collaborating with the diverse individuals in New York’s East End and beyond. Through our work, we strive to foster creativity and a sense of belonging, enhancing cultural experiences for all. SAC is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
To learn more about Southampton Arts Center, located at 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton, New York 11968, visit southamptonartscenter.org or call 631.283.0967. You may also follow SAC on Facebook and Instagram @southamptonartscenter. For press inquiries, photography, press passes and interviews, please contact Southampton Arts Center via email at info@southamptoncenter.org or by phone at 631.283-0967.
About USA Warrior Stories
USA Warrior Stories Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to documenting, preserving, and sharing video stories of Veterans online. This initiative helps Veterans connect with each other while also enhancing our understanding of their sacrifices for our freedom and their vital contributions to the nation. https://usawarriorstories.org/
